The Gambia Immigration Department last evening issued a press statement reacting to alleged abuse of a Sierra Leonean and a Guinean by its officers.
The statement reads: “Following the alleged abuse of a Sierra Leonean and a Gambian national by officers of Gambia Immigration Department that has been making rounds on the social media, the Office of the Director General of Immigration wishes to inform the general public that it has received the said allegations with a great deal of dismay.
“Consequently, the office of the director general sanctioned an urgent and comprehensive investigation in to the matter to ensure that facts surrounding the allegations are established and possible perpetrators of the alleged physical abuse are brought to book. However, the GID want to make it absolutely clear that no such abuses have been officially reported to any of our stations and all efforts to hear from the alleged victims have so far proved unsuccessful.
“The GID acknowledges the existing cordial relationship with the non-Gambian community in our country and would continue to cherish that relationship for our common good. In view of the above, GID wishes to assure the general public of its unwavering commitment in respecting the rights of the citizenry and residents of The Gambia at all times thus any immigration officer found wanting will face strict disciplinary actions accordingly.
While we strive to serve Gambians and non-Gambians alike in the most professional manner, the GID encourages the public to report all forms of misconduct to the Public Relations Office of the GID Headquarters in person or contact telephone: 9966189/4228717. The GID assures everyone a safe and tolerant Gambian society.”
